Letter to the editor: NFL making football worse

OPINION:

The NFL has gone crazy trying to change the rules of football in a bid to interest viewers, especially in the kickoff area (“NFL’s new kickoff draws mixed reviews,” web, Sept. 11). It’s trying to copy the XFL and other inferior leagues, but it’s ruining the game, not making it better.

If the NFL wants to improve kickoffs and player safety, it should:

1. Receive and kick team lines up no farther out than players’ own 40-yard line.

2. Have the kicker kick from his own 30-yard line, and require that the ball reach the 50-yard line before anyone can touch it (in the event of an onside kick).

3. Prohibit any player from running forward until the ball is actually kicked.

At least these rules retain some of the traditional kickoff intentions. I would advise, however, that the onside kick be announced to avoid injury on any chip shot to the 50-yard line. Now that is an exciting play, a lot like the old days.

If the NFL had any genuine interest in improving football, instead of just trying to make money or increase interest with gimmicks, it would sit down and think hard about what the game really needs.

J.V. PRESOGNA

Erie, Pennsylvania